Two-way radios and their role in disaster preparedness
One of the most difficult tasks to perform after weather-related disasters is communicating with your emergency contacts, family, and friends. Two-way radios can play an important role in the aftermath of a disaster. Depending on the size and severity of the disaster, many common forms of communication may not be available. Land phone lines may be damaged or inoperable. The cell phone towers may have been toppled or destroyed. Even if the towers withstand the storm, these systems can be blocked with thousands of worried calls to loved ones in the disaster area.
When any type of disaster strikes you, the first thing to do is let someone know that you and your family are safe. If someone is injured, an urgent message must be conveyed to someone who can provide or send help. Two-way radios are not dependent on a tower. They transmit and receive “radio to radio.” In many previous cases, after a disaster, local radio enthusiasts have played a very important role in communicating with officials when help is needed.
You should be aware that these two-way GMRS / FRS radios are not the “walkie-talkies” you had as a child. GMRS is an acronym for “General Mobile Radio Service” and FRS stands for “Family Radio Service.” These two-way radios typically have 22 main channels along with a multitude of “privacy” codes that can multiply the number of channels available. Of the top 22 channels, GMRS occupies channels 1 through 7 and 15 through 22. To operate on these channels, a license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is required. GMRS radios have a higher wattage output on these channels and therefore have a longer transmission range.
Some models claim to have a range of up to 25 miles. However, keep in mind that these are the maximum ranges in “near perfect” conditions, such as through water or on very flat land. Terrain, buildings, and other local obstructions can affect this range. FRS radios operate on channels 8 through 14. An FCC license is not required to operate on these channels. The power output is much lower on these channels, resulting in a shorter transmission range. Many models include additional features such as receiving NOAA weather alerts and accessories such as “hands-free” headsets and car chargers.
Some of the most common uses for two-way radios are businesses, campers, hikers, farmers, motorcycle and ATV operators, hunters and fishermen, family use in shopping malls or flea markets, and many other functions where communication between is desired. the parts. While most use of two-way radios is recreational, in the event of a disaster, it will become apparent why it is imperative to have a two-way radio in your survival kit.